From MeritBadgeDotOrg

Cub scouting teaches boys that doing your best is important, not winning. What one boy is capable of doing when trying his best may not be the same as other boys, and each should be viewed based on their effort, not their ability.

Advancement

Cub Scouts -- even those of the same age -- may have very different developmental timetables. For this reason, advancement performance in Cub Scouting is centered on its motto: "Do Your Best." When a boy has done this -- his very best -- then regardless of the requirements for any rank or award, it is enough; accomplishment is noted. This is why den leaders, assistants, and parents or guardians are involved in approvals. Generally they know if effort put forth is really the Cub Scout’s best.

When a boy completes advancement, he should be congratulated immediately and publicly. And though badges of rank should be reserved for the next pack meeting, it is best to present items such as belt loops and pins soon after they have been earned. If it is possible for the pack to report and purchase these awards quickly, they could be presented at a den meeting, rather than waiting for a pack meeting. If presented at den meetings, the accompanying pocket certificates can be used in a ceremony at a subsequent pack meeting—or vice versa with the pocket certificates at a den meeting. However this is done, it is important to note that advancement is an individual process, not dependent on the work or progress of others. Awards should not be withheld for group recognition. Likewise, a boy should not be presented with recognition he has not earned simply so that he will "not feel left out."

In the same spirit as "Do Your Best," if a Cub Scout is close to earning a badge of rank when it is time for him to transition to a new den, the pack committee, in consultation with the den leader and the Cub Scout’s parent or guardian, may allow him a few weeks to complete the badge before going on to the next rank. Earning it will give him added incentive to continue in Scouting and carry on and tackle the next rank.

History

Before 2001, the Tiger Cub Motto was Search, discover, share. Currently, Tiger Cub Scouts are fully integrated in the Pack and use the Cub Scout Motto.